What is Play Therapy

Play Therapy refers to the therapeutic benefits of play.  Play is a child's natural form of communication, just as talking is typically an adult's.   Play therapy builds on the natural way that children learn about themselves and their relationships in the world around them. Play Therapy differs from regular play and encompases a large number of specific and specialized treatment methods.   

Emotions are often challenging for children to understand and even more troublesome to express in a healthy manner.  Play allows children a safe psychological distance from their problems and enables them to fully express their true thoughts and feelings in a way that is developmentally appropriate. Play is the ideal intervention for children.  Through the use of specifically selected toys, the child is given the vehicle to express their story through their play. Through play therapy, children learn to communicate with others, express feelings, modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and learn a variety of ways of relating to others (Association for Play Therapy).

We apply the therapeutic power of play to communicate with and treat  individuals of all ages and their families.  While many children try to express themselves through words, it is not their most competent or comfortable means of communication.  Often it is not until they begin to express their feelings though play in a safe environment that their truth emerges.
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What is a Play Therapist

Play Therapists are licensed Mental Health Professionals who have earned Master's degrees in the Mental Health field and obtained further education and training specific to play therapy.   A Registered Play Therapist is a certified Play Therapist who has had advanced, specialized training, experience, and supervison, and has met the strict regulations of the Association for Play Therapy.

Is Play Therapy is Right for My Child?

In the process of growing up, children often experience difficulty coping at one time or another, or they exhibit certain behaviors that may concern or challenge their parents or teachers. Generally speaking, if you, your child's teacher, or pediatrician are concerned about your child's behavior or difficulty adjusting, Play Therapy may be the recommended approach to help your child (Association for Play Therapy). ​